GS2 · 10 marks · 150 words

Federal governance is characterised by institutionalized arrangements for solving problems generated by pluralism based on consultation and mutual consent. How have Zonal Councils evolved from merely advisory bodies to proactive platforms for action?

Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024

Federalism Centre-State Relations Statutory and Regulatory Bodies

Syllabus: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

How toppers approached it

From 4 of the 6 answers · about 170 words · 50% drew a diagram.

Opening

No separate opening2 of 4
A definition1 of 4
A restatement1 of 4

Body

Points3 of 4
Points and prose1 of 4

A summary2 of 4
A way forward2 of 4

The toppers’ answers

Rahul ShekharAIR 46 · CSE 2024 · 89 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

Federalism in India is moving towards cooperation, collaboration and competition, thus Zonal councils have gained traction.

Body · points and prose

Diagram

- Institutional arrangements - 1) Inter-state councils - Constitutional body - Regional issues as well as national issues - 2) River boards - Solving disputes amicably - 3) Zonal councils - Issue resolutions of each zones - Chaired by Home Minister - 4) GST council (Art 279A) - For indirect taxation

Zonal councils: Evolution from advisory → proactive

Deeper engagements • CMs, Governors with Home Minister → resolve issues.
Achieving substantive results • Eg. tackling left wing extremism issues.
Focus on integration Eg. NE council → checking insurgency.
Respecting federal units Eg. development agendas of respective states.
Dispute resolution among states

Close · a summary

Eg. border disputes between states.

Active success of zonal councils will promote balanced regional growth and federal spirit.

More on Federalism

The federal structure, its asymmetries and the balance the Constitution strikes.

All GS2 questions on Federalism